JENNINGS COUNTY — On Wednesday, Jennings County High School allowed students to join in the national civic demonstration supporting school safety – “A Walk Together.” No student was required to participate — it was entirely voluntary.
Students were not scrutinized for their choices and the schools were supportive of the event.
The students who organized the “walk together” did not wish the event to be political in any way. They wanted it to truly be the beginning of something bigger.
Their wish was for “17 Acts of Kindness” each week from every individual who participated, and eventually the school district. Students who participated said it’s simply the right way to live.
While the students participated, they were reminded of their message: “It starts with us” and the acts of kindness to perform each week for the rest of the school year.
Then the students had a “Moment of Silence” for all victims of school violence, including the 17 lives lost in Parkland, Florida.
After the event was over, the students returned to their classes.
Brady Shepherd, a JCHS senior said, “Hopefully this will encourage a discussion for change and I hope that is the message that comes out of this.”
Blaich Blanton, a JCHS senior and one of the organizers said, “I hope those who participated in this national movement did so in right manner. The overall goal of this we can all agree is an increase in school safety, which I believe starts with us the students.”
Ashley Browning is a senior at Jennings County High School.
